BTC 15-Min Short-Term Slight Increase of 0.39%: Escalation of the Iran–Iraq Conflict and Disrupted Shipping Through the Strait of Hormuz Boost Safe-Haven Sentiment

Market Analysis Price Volatility Commodities Metals

2026-07-22 16:58:41

BTC-0.15%

BZ1.92%

From 16:30 to 16:45 UTC on July 22, 2026, BTC saw a slight short-term increase of 0.39%, with a price range of 66,015.5–66,393.2 USDT and an Ampl of 0.57%. Although the candlestick chart showed a minor rebound, over the past 24 hours BTC has accumulated a decline of about 0.72%, and the current price is around 66,145 USDT. Overall, the market remains in a narrow-range consolidation, with trading volume staying low (the 4-hour candlestick chart shows only 514 BTC), indicating limited market participation.

The main driver behind this move is a geopolitical risk premium stemming from the ongoing escalation of the Iran–U.S. military conflict. The U.S. military carried out airstrikes against Iran for the 11th consecutive night, expanding targets to areas near Isfahan, Tehran, and the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran responded with retaliatory strikes. The Strait of Hormuz is in an “open but severely damaged” condition, with increased risk of attacks on tankers. Brent crude rose to $94.33 per barrel, and warming inflation expectations further weighed on valuations of risk assets. Capital flowed to gold (hitting a two-week high of $4,117 per ounce) and crude oil as a safe haven, rather than into the crypto market.

Second, the Fed’s July meeting kept interest rates unchanged at 3.50%–3.75% (83% probability), but a 17% chance of a modest rate hike still poses potential pressure. Order Book data shows a bid/ask depth ratio of 1.80: bids are favored, but depth is extremely thin. Market sentiment is cautious and investors are waiting, with no clear directional consensus.

Volatility risk remains. Keep an eye on the progress of Iran–U.S. ceasefire talks, the shipping status in the Strait of Hormuz, and the Fed’s remarks ahead of the July 28–29 meeting. For key support, watch $65,550; for resistance, $66,736. BTC’s decline of only 0.72% falls within the range of a relatively mild pullback. Still, remain alert for cascading sell pressure if the geopolitical situation escalates further. It’s advisable to monitor on-chain fund flows and changes in the macro news backdrop.

Disclaimer: The information on this page may come from third-party sources and is for reference only. It does not represent the views or opinions of Gate and does not constitute any financial, investment, or legal advice. Virtual asset trading involves high risk. Please do not rely solely on the information on this page when making decisions. For details, see the Disclaimer.